Shrimp Appetizers with Avocado and Cucumber
User Reviews
5
Shrimp Appetizers with Avocado and Cucumber
Description
In Shrimp Appetizers with Avocado and Cucumber, large shrimp are seasoned with a blend of garlic, cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, then sautéed quickly in olive oil to maintain their tenderness and mild heat. The dish balances the shrimp's spiced warmth with a creamy avocado spread mixed with lime juice and salt. Thin slices of English cucumber serve as a crisp, cooling base for the avocado and shrimp, offering a fresh textural contrast.
The flavor profile features Cajun spices that provide a gentle kick without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the shrimp. The avocado spread adds smoothness and acidity from lime, brightening the overall taste. The shrimp are cooked until just opaque, ensuring a juicy and tender result.
This appetizer works well for parties or light meals where finger foods are appropriate. The ease of assembling individual bites with cucumber slices makes it convenient for offering to guests. Garnishing with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime enhances the freshness and visual appeal.
If preparing ahead, the completed appetizers can be refrigerated for up to four hours, making them ideal for advance preparation. This recipe doesn't require complicated techniques, relying instead on fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking to create a balanced appetizer.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Cajun Shrimp:
- 1 lb Shrimp peeled and deveined, large
- 2 garlic finely minced, cloves
- 1 Tbsp cilantro finely chopped, plus more to garnish
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp olive oil divided
For the Avocado Spread:
- 1 avocado
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp lime juice plus more to squeeze over finished appetizers
- 1 English cucumber sliced into 22 rings
Instructions
How to Make Cajun Shrimp:
- Place shrimp in a large mixing bowl and pat dry with paper towels. Add minced garlic, 1 Tbsp cilantro, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper and 1 Tbsp olive oil. Stir well to combine.
- Heat a large heavy pan over medium/high heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Once oil is hot, add shrimp in a single layer and sauté 2 min per side or until cooked through.
How to Make Avocado Spread & Assemble:
- In a small bowl, mash together 1 avocado, 1/4 tsp salt and 1 Tbsp lime juice until creamy. Divide the avocado mix over 20-22 cucumber slices.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp avocado bites and garnish with more finely chopped cilantro. If not serving right away, cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 22shrimp appetizers
Amount Per Serving
Calories 49 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 49kcal | 2% |
| Carbs | 1g | |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Cholesterol | 51mg | 17% |
| Sodium | 240mg | 10% |
| Potassium | 83mg | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 95IU | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 2.4mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 34mg | 3% |
| Iron | 0.6mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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